China upgrades its ZBD04 / WZ502 IFV to ZBD08 / WZ502G

China is starting to introduce an upgraded Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), designated WZ502G. Compared to its predecessor, the original WZ502 or ZBD04, it's armor has been increased. The front of the hull and the turret can withstand hits from 30 mm rounds, the sides 14.5 mm rounds and the rear 7.62mm. It has the option of bolting on additional armor as needed.

The amphibious capability has been reduced with the removal of the rear water jets. The turret includes a thermal imaging gun sight. Armament remains a version of Russia's BMP-3 turret with 100 mm main gun, 30 mm cannon and coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun.

The current ZBD04 (WZ502) currently in use.

The upgraded ZBD08 (WZ502G) now entering service.

Specifications by NORINCO of the VN11, the export designation of the ZBD04.

Crew: 3+7
Combat weight: 21.5 t
Power-to-weight ratio: 25.2 hp/t
Length (gun forward): 7.52 m
Length (gun backward): 8.28 m
Width (with skirt): 3.30 m
Height (to turret top): 2.53 m
Maximum speed (on road): 70 km/h
Maximum speed (on water): 13 km/h
Cruising range: 400 km
Max gradient: 60%
Trench: 2.5 m
Vertical obstacle: 0.75 m
Ground clearance: 0.45 m
Engine: water-cooled, turbo charged V6 diesel engine, developing 404 kW at 2200 rpm
Armament (main): 100 mm rifled gun
Armament (ATGM): laser beam riding gun-launched missile
Armament (co-axial): 1x 30 mm cannon and 1x 7.62 mm MG
Ammunition (main): 41 rounds
Ammunition (ATGM): 8 rounds
Ammunition (30 mm): 500 rounds
Ammunition (7.62 mm): 2000 rounds
Gun elevation/depression: -6° to +60°
NBC: yes
Night vision equipment: yes
Smoke discharger: yes